The phrase "give, and it shall be given unto you" is a biblical principle that appears in Luke 6:38 of the New Testament: "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you."
Detailed Meaning:
Generosity and Reciprocity:
- The phrase emphasizes the idea that generosity leads to reciprocal generosity. When people give selflessly—whether it be of material goods, kindness, time, or love—they open themselves up to receiving similar blessings in return. The underlying message is that acts of giving are rewarded, often in ways that are not immediately apparent.
Quality of Giving:
- The verse highlights that the quality and quantity of what one gives matters. The mention of a "good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over" implies that when we give generously and wholeheartedly, we can expect an abundance in return. It suggests that true giving involves not only the act itself but also the intention and heart behind it.
Universal Principle:
- This principle is not limited to mere financial or material transactions. It can be applied to various aspects of life, including emotional and social exchanges. For instance, giving love or support to others often cultivates an environment where love and support are returned.
Spiritual Significance:
- In a spiritual context, this phrase can indicate that the divine or cosmic forces respond to the positivity and generosity of a person’s actions. Many believe that the energy you put into the world, whether good or bad, will come back to you in some form—often reinforced in various spiritual traditions and philosophies.
Moral Responsibility:
- The teaching also encourages individuals to consider their moral responsibility to help others. It suggests that what we have is best utilized when shared with those around us, fostering community and compassion. This ethos challenges the notion of selfishness and promotes a more interconnected view of humanity.
- Faith and Trust:
- This principle also requires a degree of faith and trust. It asks individuals to believe that their acts of kindness and generosity will eventually be rewarded, even if the return is not immediate or measurable.
In summary, "give, and it shall be given unto you" encapsulates a philosophy of generosity, suggesting that acts of giving can lead to a cycle of abundance and gratitude, fostering both personal fulfillment and community well-being.